Ireland's Electrical Issue 109 July-Aug

Electrical Magazine & Events is the only magazine dedicated to providing news and information covering all of Ireland's electrical industry both North and South of the border.

ISSUE 109 - JULY/AUG 2025

POWERING THE ELECTRIFICATION REVOLUTION

IN THIS ISSUE

Editor’s COMMENT FUNDRAISING SEASON GETS UNDERWAY Congratulations to the winners, highly commended and shortlisted entries at the Northern Ireland Electrical Awards 2025. We hope everyone attending enjoyed the evening and extend our thanks to the event sponsors supporting this important celebration of industry excellence. electex Belfast has also been and gone since our last edition, with our next shows coming up in Dublin over September 10-11, 2025, and Limerick from March 31 to April 1, 2026. You’ll find a busy edition inside, including profiles of all 17 branches in CEF’s expanding network as the electrical wholesaler celebrates its 20th anniversary in Ireland. With fundraising season well underway, coverage includes the very successful inaugural NI Electrical Industries Charity Shield, which raised an impressive £14,000 for EIC. Looking ahead, the Dash of the Derg returns for a second year on September 5, following the success of last year’s event which raised close to €30,000 for IEBA. Alyson Magee

CONTENTS

ISSUE 109 JULY/AUGUST 2025

12 Products: Cover star Precision Cables outlines its role as a strategic partner in the electrification of Ireland, helping design and power infrastructure for generations to come. 23 In Focus: The industry’s top people, products and projects have been recognised at the Northern Ireland Electrical Awards 2025, held in Titanic Belfast on June 6. 53 In Focus: With CEF celebrating 20 years in the Irish market in 2025, we chat to the electrical wholesaler’s East region Manager Mark McCluggage and profile all 17 branches. 76 News & Views: ECA NI Chairman Richard Gilmour recently welcomed National President Stuart Smith to the association’s Annual Dinner at the Culloden Estate and Spa. 89 Products: Among sector leaders showcased in our lighting feature is ROBUS, which marked 40 years in business as the largest Irish lighting manufacturer in the world last year. 96 News & Views: Twelve football teams battled it out to raise funds for EIC at the NI Electrical Industries Charity Shield in Crusaders FC’s Seaview Stadium, Belfast on May 16.

CONTACT US: The Forge, 13b Lisburn Road, Moira, Co. Armagh BT67 0JR T: Moira: 028 9261 2990 T: Dublin: 01 696 8319 E: electrical@kmpltd.co.uk www.elecmagazine.com Administration Laoise Boyle Photography Gordon McAvoy Printed by W&G Baird THE TEAM: Managing Director Karen McAvoy Editor Alyson Magee Media Manager Janice Uprichard Media Advisor Grace McSherry Production Lead Julie Anne Guiney Head of Digital Creative Michael Joyce Creative Design Jo Hendron Office Manager Andrea Simpson

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With reference to the Misdescriptions Act, please note that the measurements and artist’s impressions within are for illustrative purposes only and may not be accurate. Reproduction of whole or in part of this publication, without prior permission from Karen McAvoy Publishing Ltd, is strictly prohibited.

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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 3

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NEWS

Wallace Whittle’s Belfast team.

BELFAST MEP CONSULTANCY EXPANDING TEAM TO DRIVE GROWTH

Dan O’Shea.

ESG, sustainability and MEP consultancy Wallace Whittle has announced plans to double its headcount and increase the turnover of its Belfast office by 50% in 2025. Director Gavin McCausland is aiming to increase the firm’s Belfast team from 9 to 18 employees over the next year, following a move to new city centre offices at 1 Hill Street. Wallace Whittle has made similar investments in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen as part of a group-wide growth programme and operates its own Academy training centre delivering in-

depth training for staff from apprentices to senior managers. “We have a great team in Belfast that I am very proud of, and we plan to build on that as more projects are confirmed in the next few months,” said Gavin. “Our work in Northern Ireland has led to opportunities in other parts of the UK so we’re getting the chance to tackle a variety of projects in all kinds of sectors.” Recent projects include the £20m DVA test centre in Belfast and £23m The Edge student accommodation in Belfast. www.wallacewhittle.com

LONGFORD ELECTRICIAN NAMED

Dan O’Shea, a 20-year-old trainee electrician from Longford, has become the first Republic of Ireland contestant to lift the overall title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice. Wowing judges with his passion for renewable energy and inclusivity, Dan beat over 2,700 apprentices from across the UK and Ireland to secure the top prize of tools, training and technology worth €10,000 plus €2,000 of Screwfix vouchers for his college. Currently completing Phase 2 of his electrical apprenticeship with F White Electrical in Ballymahon, he took place in a two-day final in London judged by representatives from Screwfix, NICEIC, CIPHE and FMB. Following his father and uncle into the trade, he has become an advocate for vocational paths, creating a trade skills workshop for secondary school students and approaching local politicians to champion greater visibility for trade careers in secondary school education. “From learning new skills, meeting new people and working with the most advanced tools, there’s nothing I don’t love about the electrical trade,” said Dan. “Trades are always in demand, and I’d recommend apprenticeships to anyone.” www.screwfix.com SCREWFIX TRADE APPRENTICE 2025

BALLYOGAN SOLAR PV PROJECT WINS ALL-IRELAND BUSINESS AWARD

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown (DLR) County Council’s Ballyogan Operations Centre solar PV project has won the All-Ireland Business Award at the All-Ireland Entrepreneurs Summit. Part of the DLR Retrofitting Programme under the Climate Action Plan, the project received 50% funding through the SEAI Pathfinder Programme. The system has already shown significant impact, providing 10,000kWh of renewable electricity to the grid in just one month. A 174kWp solar PV system was installed across three project phases comprising 324 solar panels situated on the roofs of the administration and utility buildings at Ballyogan. The array is projected to generate a

L-R: Gerard Donnellan, SEAI, Liz Clarke, Dean Cunningham, David Mulhall, Stephen Brady and Jim O’Leary, DLR, and Brigid Walsh and Des Walsh, Solar Precision Ltd.

Replacing over 200,000kWh of natural gas across the past 12 months at Ballyogan, the electrical performance of the facility has improved by 38,586kWh across the same timeline. John O’Sullivan, SEAI, said, “Under the Pathfinder programme, we look forward to partnering with the Dublin Local Authorities in the coming years to advance energy efficiency and decarbonisation projects.” www.seai.ie

combined 165,000kWh of clean renewable electricity each year, with an export licence awarded to supply surplus generation to the grid.

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NEWS

NIEA APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR TAKES FIRST PLACE IN SKILLBUILD QUALIFIER

Grant has released new dates for its sought-after training courses, both online and onsite, covering a range of Grant heating technologies. Led by Training Manager Keith Scully, the courses include comprehensive training on the new Grant Aerona R290 heat pump and the Grant Vortex condensing boiler. Tailored for industry professionals including electricians, plumbers, installers, engineers, architects and local authorities, Grant’s new Aerona R290 course is specifically designed to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to the latest R290 heat pump technology and its seamless integration with advanced smart control systems. The Oil Burner Training course covers upgrading existing burners to be compatible with HVO biofuel, adding a crucial skill set for today’s professionals. Upcoming course dates are as follows: • Oil Boiler Training GRANT LAUNCHES NEW DATES FOR HEAT PUMP & OIL BURNER TRAINING

Belfast Met apprentice Ewan Forsythe has achieved the top score in Electrical Installation, one of 11 categories in the SkillBuild NI Regional Qualifier 2025. Second place went to SERC student Matthew Drysdale and third to Leon Rountree from SRC at the event, held in the Downpatrick campus of South Eastern Regional College (SERC) on May 20. Ewan, who is training with NUGENT, was also named

Ewan Forsythe.

Apprentice of the Year at the Northern Ireland Electrical Awards held in Titanic Belfast on June 6. Other categories featured in the SkillBuild qualifier included Security Installation, with Belfast Met apprentices Charlie McCready, Antaine McNicholl and Jack Patterson respectively awarded first, second and third place. SERC apprentices Rebecca Wilson, Alex

Punyer and Owen Brady, meanwhile completed a full sweep with a respective first, second and third in Fire Installation. Over 100 apprentices competed against each other in the NI heat, which was hosted by CITB NI in partnership with CITB GB and SERC. Winners may have the opportunity to represent NI in the SkillBuild UK National

Finals in November. www.goconstruct.org

EGIS DEVELOPS BATTERY-POWERED SYSTEM SUPPORTING TRAIN NETWORK ELECTRIFICATION

(Product & Burner): June 10 & 17; July 1 • Heat Pump Training: June 12 & 19; July 3

Engineering and

introduction of Ireland’s next fleet for the Dart+ network, with Irish Rail recently purchasing battery-powered trains from French company Alstom, due to enter service in 2026. Funded under

The training sessions are hosted at Grant’s facilities in Birr, Co Offaly. To book a training course, visit the Grant Engineering Eventbrite page or scan the QR code. www.grantni.com/www.grant.ie

operations firm Egis has completed the installation and testing of a new train protection system for

Irish Rail facilitating the use of battery- powered trains for the first time in Ireland. Installed on the Dundalk-Greystones rail line, the system improves railway safety through functionality allowing the track and train to communicate, including automatic train stopping and adherence to line speeds or restrictions. Completing safety approvals to be in service by the end of 2025, the system will ultimately be rolled out across the rail network to replace existing systems. The new system will support the

Egis’ battery system supports electrification of the Greater Dublin network. (photo credit: DepositPhotos)

the National Development Plan, Dart+ will see a doubling of capacity and trebling of the electrification of the Greater Dublin network, facilitating more sustainable mobility in the capital and surrounding counties. The new system was installed over 30 months, with project partners including Irish Rail, Egis, Deutsche Bahn and

Training sessions are hosted at Grant’s facilities in Birr, Co Offaly.

CPC Project Services. www.egis-group.com

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NEWS

Ruth Devine MBE has been named as the 112th president of the Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA). She is the second female president in ECA’s 124-year history, with Diane Johnson serving in the role over 2010-2011. For the past 18 years, Ruth has been a director of award-winning contractor SJD Associates Ltd in Milton Keynes. A prominent figure in the electrotechnical and engineering services industry, she brings extensive industry experience, a deep commitment to apprenticeships and a passion for building a more inclusive and sustainable sector. Outside of her professional role, she chairs ECA’s Skills Committee, which advises ECA Council on relevant skills matters and supports member engagement with the skills system. She is also employer chair of The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership and a founding member of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Construction Route Panel and the Building Safety Regulator’s Industry Competence Committee. Additionally, Ruth supports the Construction Leadership Council on skills issues and attends the Government’s Construction Skills ECA APPOINTS ITS SECOND FEMALE PRESIDENT IN 124 YEARS

L-R: Andrea Carroll, daa, former Transport Minister Jack Chambers, and Vincent Harrison, daa visit Phase 1.

DUBLIN AIRPORT TO PRODUCE 20% OF ELECTRICITY FROM SOLAR ENERGY BY 2030

A significant expansion of its onsite solar farm will position Dublin Airport on track to generate more than 20% of its annual electricity needs from renewable solar energy by 2030. Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien officially opened Phase 1 of Dublin Airport’s solar farm, an installation of more than 15,000 solar panels by Greenvolt Next on a 28-acre site close to the south runway. Now operational, the 9MWp solar farm is expected to generate 7GWh to 9GWh per annum dependent on weather conditions, which is 10%-13% of Dublin Airport’s

annual consumption. It is sufficient to cover the electricity needs of the entire airfield, with excess electricity contributing to the energy needs of the airport terminals and campus. Subject to planning permission, Phase 2 envisages the staged deployment of an additional 6,000 solar panels by late 2027, sufficient to fully power the baggage systems in Terminals 1 and 2. Cork Airport has also applied for planning permission for an elevated 1.8MWp solar farm, which would deliver up to 30% of its energy needs. www.next.greenvolt.com

EMERALD PARK ENHANCES SUSTAINABILITY WITH FLOGAS PROJECT

Family theme park Emerald Park has unveiled a new solar panel installation as part of a new five-year sustainability partnership with Flogas. The installation features over 290 solar panels placed throughout the park,

generating 127,504 kWh of clean energy per year, which is enough to power the entire park and zoo solely on solar energy for a full month and reduce its annual carbon footprint by 37 tonnes of CO2. The investment is expected to save Emerald Park over €30,000 annually in energy costs, potentially amounting to as much as €1m over the panels’ lifespan, based on current energy prices. The investment is projected to pay for itself in approximately five years. The partnership also includes installation of 20 EV charging units in the car park, supporting eco-friendly travel for guests to the theme park. As part of the partnership, residential Customers get two free tickets worth €104 to Emerald Park when they renew with Flogas or switch to Flogas on Flogas.ie. www.flogas.ie

Delivery Group. www.eca.co.uk

L-R: Charles Coyle, Managing Director of Emerald Park, and John Rooney, Managing Director of Flogas.

Ruth Devine MBE.

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NEWS

IRELAND AND UK ENERGY RESILIENCE BOOSTED BY GREENLINK INTERCONNECTOR

Power system operator and developer EirGrid has announced a procurement programme for over €1bn for works related to the delivery of an offshore electricity grid for Ireland. In 2021, Ireland opted to move towards a plan-led rollout of offshore renewables and infrastructure. EirGrid, as Ireland’s transmission system operator, has been tasked with bringing forward a plan to deliver on the Government’s offshore ambitions. Focused initially on Ireland’s east EIRGRID ANNOUNCES €1BN PROCUREMENT PROGRAMME FOR OFFSHORE GRID

Greenlink’s 504MW interconnector is now transferring power between Ireland and the UK following connections into electricity transmission networks on both sides of the Irish Sea. The project comprises two high- voltage direct current subsea cables and associated converter stations, interconnecting at substations on EirGrid’s network and the UK’s National Grid. Boosting energy security and resilience, the connection will also increase capability to harness the potential of clean power by sharing surplus generation between Ireland and the UK. At the Irish end of Greenlink’s 200km span, 160km of which is under the sea, the interconnector connects into EirGrid’s Great Island substation in Co Wexford. Direct current electricity to converted to alternating current, for use when imported onto each country’s grid, with the reverse

Transport Minister Darragh O’Brien officially launches the Greenlink Interconnector.

process taking place to export power over the link. The interconnector is owned by Greenlink and operated by EirGrid. James O’Reilly, CEO of Greenlink Interconnector Limited, said, “This achievement reflects the technical expertise and collaboration of the Greenlink team and our trusted partners, Siemens Energy and Sumitomo Electric.” www.greenlink.ie

coast and then moving to the south coast, the procurement

programme will relate to operation and maintenance (O&M) activities to enable the connection of offshore renewable generation to the onshore grid. The contracts will encompass a minimum of eight O&M procurement categories covering the full spectrum of services required, including Inspection & Maintenance Support, Subsea Inspection Repair & Maintenance, Asset Health and Security & Operational Monitoring. Michael Mahon, Chief Infrastructure Officer at EirGrid, said, “I would encourage the entire supply chain in these areas to engage with EirGrid and help us to harness the significant offshore wind resource that exists in Irish waters.” www.eirgrid.com

ESB and SETU launch the new collaboration at ESB in Portlaoise.

SETU AND ESB NETWORKS ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC COLLABORATION

South East Technological University (SETU) and ESB Networks Training have announced a new collaboration aimed at enhancing the energy sector in Ireland. The collaboration will create learning opportunities, foster innovation and strengthen industry-academic partnerships in the sector. One of the steering group’s initial priorities is to focus on the development of an SETU-accredited training programme in Electrical Network Operations. Learners enrolled on this programme will be formally registered as SETU students. Upon successful completion, this programme will pave the way for a broader suite of validated

training opportunities. Access to vital infrastructure, including high-voltage substations, will provide learners from both organisations with invaluable, hands- on experience in real-world environments - ensuring Ireland’s energy workforce is prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. Keith Kavanagh, ESB Networks, said, “We are committed to fostering a highly- skilled workforce equipped to meet the evolving demands of the energy industry. Our collaboration with SETU will enable us to share expertise, develop cutting- edge training programmes, and ultimately benefit the entire sector.” www.setu.ie

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COVER STORY

PRECISION CABLES IS SUPPORTING THE RAPID, SAFE AND INTELLIGENT ROLLOUT OF THE INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDED TO MAKE ELECTRIFICATION A REALITY…

Powering the electrification revolution

Precision’s innovative cable solutions meet the needs of diverse applications to leverage the opportunities provided by electrification. The electrification revolution refers to the ongoing process of transitioning from fossil fuels to electricity as the primary source of energy in various sectors, including transportation, heating and industrial processes. This shift is driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy security and leverage cheaper and more reliable renewable energy sources. The electrification revolution has two key aspects: the increasing demand for electricity due to new technologies such as electric vehicles and AI, and the growing supply of renewable electricity from sources like solar and wind. While the global energy demand is expected to remain stable over the next 30 years, the electricity share of the total energy mix is expected to double from 20% to 40% over the same period, mainly because of the shift of fossil fuel-based applications – such as gas heating or internal combustion engines

“Electrification is at the core of national decarbonisation strategies, impacting everything from transport and housing to utilities and heavy industry.”

12 | IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE

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COVER STORY

– towards electricity, particularly from renewable sources, and because of the growing expansion of electricity-based applications such as data centres. THE SHIFT IS UNDERWAY Across Europe, and notably here in Ireland, the race toward a low-carbon economy is no longer a distant aspiration. Electrification is at the core of national decarbonisation strategies, impacting everything from transport and housing to utilities and heavy industry. For Precision Cables, the challenge is clear: support the rapid, safe and intelligent rollout of the infrastructure needed to make electrification a reality. As electricity becomes the dominant form of energy, the demands placed on cabling systems are evolving. Today’s electrical grids are no longer one-way systems, they are dynamic, multi-source ecosystems that must handle inputs from wind farms, solar arrays, battery storage and consumer- level technologies such as EVs and heat pumps. This complexity places the cable supply chain front and centre in

discussions around performance, safety and sustainability. At Precision Cables, we see this transition not just as a challenge, but as an opportunity to lead. WHAT ELECTRIFICATION DEMANDS – AND HOW WE DELIVER The needs of electrification projects differ significantly from legacy infrastructure builds. These projects require: • High-performance materials capable of withstanding variable loads and extreme environments. • Scalable solutions that can expand with energy demand and urban growth. • Fire-resistant and low-smoke cables to meet the latest building and safety regulations. • Smart-enabled cabling prepared for future digital grid integration and asset tracking. To meet these needs, Precision Cables sources from global leaders and offers tailored advisory services to consultants, contractors and public sector clients. It supports the full lifecycle of infrastructure

from early-stage specification to on-site technical support. The company is also contributing to Ireland’s green transition by supplying: • Medium and low-voltage cables for offshore wind farm connections. • LV power and data cables for EV charging networks and depots. • CPR-rated building wire for electrified public buildings and smart homes. • Custom solutions for district heating control, lighting systems and renewable interconnects.

INNOVATION, DELIVERED LOCALLY

As new cable technologies emerge, from lightweight HVDC to recyclable insulations, Precision Cables is investing in knowledge transfer, fast lead times and stock availability, giving Irish specifiers confidence when planning for the future. Precision Cables is more than a supplier, it’s a strategic partner in the electrification of Ireland. Its role is not just to deliver cables, but to help design and power the infrastructure that will support generations to come.

To contact the team at Precision Cables or learn more about how it’s powering the future of Ireland, one cable at a time, visit: www.precisioncables.ie

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VENTILATION

“Xpelair prioritises sustainability in

all aspects of operations.”

From discreet bathroom fans to sophisticated whole-house heat recovery units, Xpelair delivers solutions that exceed expectations.

AS PART OF GLEN DIMPLEX IRELAND HEATING AND VENTILATION, XPELAIR IS SYNONYMOUS WITH INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY… Xpelair is all about air quality

For over 55 years, Xpelair has been at the forefront of revolutionising ventilation technology. Xpelair has established itself as a pioneer and leader in the field of domestic, commercial and industrial ventilation, boasting a stellar reputation. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Xpelair has continuously pushed the boundaries of innovation, delivering cutting-edge solutions that cater to a diverse range of needs. Indoor air quality has become a growing concern over recent years. Choosing the right products for your clients could help achieve clean, fresh and healthy air for their homes. Whether it’s a discreet bathroom fan to maintain optimal air quality or a sophisticated whole-house heat recovery unit designed to maximise energy efficiency, Xpelair delivers solutions that exceed expectations. The commercial ventilation systems are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern workplaces, ensuring a conducive environment

for productivity and wellbeing. With a deep understanding of the importance of indoor air quality, Xpelair’s solutions are not just about functionality but also prioritise comfort and health. The extensive Xpelair ventilation range will support all your requirements, whether it is a one-off or system solution. From single bathroom fans, single room and whole-house heat recovery units to commercial ventilation systems, its range of over 300 products means there will be an Xpelair product for you. With over 55 years of experience in the ventilation industry, there is a guarantee of reliability and quality built into every product. All products are constantly monitored to ensure they meet all regulations and approvals required for a majority of applications. The Xpelair range is built under the ISO: 9001:2000 quality control system. The Xpelair range includes the Simply Silent model which is renowned for its extremely quiet operation.

As part of Glen Dimplex Ireland Heating and Ventilation, Xpelair is synonymous with innovation and sustainability. Xpelair prioritises sustainability in all aspects of operations. From using eco- friendly materials in manufacturing to designing energy-efficient products, Xpelair is committed to minimising environmental impact while maximising long-term benefits for both customers and the planet. In essence, Xpelair’s legacy is not just about ventilation, it’s about shaping the way we experience and interact with our living and working spaces. With a rich history of excellence and a forward-thinking approach, Xpelair continues to redefine the standards of ventilation, ensuring that every breath we take is cleaner, healthier and more comfortable. For more information on Glen Dimplex’s ventilation solutions, contact: T: +353 (0)1 842 4833 E: salesireland@glendimplex.com www.glendimplexireland.com

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BATTERY MAINTENANCE

WITH SUMMER SIGNALLING POTENTIAL PERIL FOR BATTERY BACKUP SYSTEMS VULNERABLE TO OVERHEATING, LEO CRAIG OF RIELLO UPS IRELAND SHARES TOP TIPS TO REDUCE THE RISK OF PREMATURE FAILURE… Avoiding a UPS battery burnout

Leo Craig, MD, Riello UPS Ireland.

Leaving at least a 10mm gap between each block ensures adequate ventilation.

“By far the most common cause of UPS battery failure is high ambient temperatures.”

Batteries are crucial to any uninterruptible power supply. Indeed, without a well-maintained battery set that kicks in when there’s a power outage, your UPS is practically worthless. But did you know that as many as 80% of UPS failures are traced to issues with the batteries? Most UPS systems still use sealed or valve-regulated lead acid batteries (SLA/VRLA), which typically come with a 5- or 10-year design life.

Most SLA/VRLA batteries have a rated capacity based on operating temperatures of 20-25°C. For every 10°C increase above this, their service life halves. So, at the height of summer when ambient temperatures could hit 40-50°C, just think of the potential damage. Now if you’re a data centre, there’s every chance you’ve got air conditioning systems keeping temperatures cool or you’ve got a separate climate-controlled battery room. But if your site doesn’t have such luxuries, what can you do to avoid a meltdown? Install your UPS and batteries in a well-ventilated area free of dust or moisture. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or close to any open windows too. Remember also to leave at least a 10mm gap between each block to ensure adequate ventilation. This ensures there’s enough room for heat to dissipate and allows the battery casing itself to slightly expand as it gets warmer, reducing your risk of experiencing thermal runaway. PREVENTING PREMATURE BATTERY FAILURE A rigorous regime of maintenance, monitoring and testing is also important. Batteries should be manually checked at least once a year, usually at the same

time as the annual PMV on your UPS. This involves inspecting the terminals for corrosion, looking for any sign of leaks, cracks or swelling, removing debris and tightening inter-cell connections. Mission critical sites such as data centres often opt for more in-depth testing, for example non-intrusive impedance testing that makes it easier to spot cell deterioration over time, or even discharge testing using a load bank. This examines your batteries under normal and peak loads, although it does require your batteries to be out of service for a limited time period. Following these positive steps will help lengthen the lifespan of your UPS batteries and make sure you aren’t left drained during the hot summer months. Download Riello UPS Ireland’s Lifespan of UPS Batteries whitepaper for free from https://riello.ie/lifespan-batteries- whitepaper

FACTORS IMPACTING BATTERY LIFESPAN

There are several issues that influence your UPS batteries’ lifespan. Firstly, there’s the frequency and depth of discharge. Every time your batteries discharge, it slightly reduces capacity, although partial discharges have less impact than fully draining them. Then there’s operating voltages – overcharging dries your batteries out, while undercharging leads to sulphate crystals forming on the plates, which harden over time and reduce capacity. However, by far the most common cause of UPS battery failure is high ambient temperatures. As temperature increases, so too does the rate of chemical reaction, which leads to water loss and corrosion.

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NORTHERN IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS

WINNERS & HIGHLY COMMENDED ENTRIES

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Winner: Brian Cunning – Dowds Group UNSUNG HERO Winner: David Patterson - Vaughan Engineering Ltd

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD Winner: Vaughan Engineering Ltd LIGHTING PRODUCT OF THE YEAR Winner: Zumtobel - TECTON II INNOVATIVE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

Winner: Solutions - ONEPOLE Base Mount Pro Highly commended: Velocity Pro Gear - Connect Tracker MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR Winner: Aico Highly commended: ROBUS WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR – MULTINATIONAL Winner: CEF WHOLESALER OF THE YEAR – SINGLE BRANCH Winner: KEW Electrical LIGHTING PROJECT OF THE YEAR Winner: PM Lighting - Post House, Malone Road, Belfast DOMESTIC PROJECT OF THE YEAR Winner: Derek Burnside Ltd - McCrea home, Shilnavogey Road, Ballymena COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR UNDER £1M Winner: WKK Electrical Services - Titanic Distillers, Belfast COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR UNDER £5M Winner: NUGENT - NRC Causeway Campus, Coleraine Highly commended: PMK - City Square House, Leeds COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR OVER £5M Winner: Dowds Group - Belfast Grand Central Station APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR Winner: Ewan Forsythe – NUGENT Highly commended: Matthew Culbert - Harvey Group SPECIALIST CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR Winner: G.S Stothers Smoke Ventilation Specialists CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR (SMALL) Winner: MIDD Electrical CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR (MEDIUM) Winner: PMK CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR (LARGE) Winner: Dowds Group

THE INDUSTRY’S TOP PEOPLE, PRODUCTS AND PROJECTS WERE RECOGNISED AT A GALA EVENT HELD IN TITANIC BELFAST ON JUNE 6, RAISING OVER £3,500 FOR THE ELECTRICAL INDUSTRIES CHARITY… NI Electrical Awards celebrate leading lights

Shining a spotlight on industry excellence, the Northern Ireland Electrical Awards 2025 were held in Titanic Belfast on June 6. Hundreds of guests attended a gala evening celebrating winners and highly commended entries across 18 categories recognising the best people, products, projects and companies. Hosted by TV personalities Claire McCollum and Adrian Logan, the event also served as a fundraiser

for the Electrical Industries Charity, with more than £3,500 raised for the charity. Following a welcome reception, guests enjoyed a sumptuous three-course meal, entertainment from comedian Andrew Ryan and presentation of the 2025 awards. This year’s independent judging panel was chaired by Stewart Nelson (NICEIC) and included Noel Harper (EJ Harper and Company) and well-known industry figure Angus Biggerstaff.

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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 23

NORTHERN IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL AWARDS 2025 WELCOMED THE

INDUSTRY’S FINEST FOR A CELEBRATORY EVENING AT TITANIC BELFAST ON JUNE 6…

L-R: Gary Dixon, Derek Montgomery, Colin Burnside & Derek Burnside, Derek Burnside Electrical.

L-R: Claire McCollum, Karen McAvoy & Adrian Logan, hosts.

L-R: Emma Nichols & Lewis Armour, T&G Electrical.

PB Electrical.

L-R: Clare & Terry Doyle, Warmth Shield.

L-R: Gareth & Catherine Howes, Solutions.

L-R: Liam & Catherine Kennedy with Mary & Thomas Cunningham, WKK Electrical.

L-R: Fionnan Cullen, Heather Kerr & Drew Gaskin, CEF Craigavon.

L-R: David & Fiona Patterson, Vaughan Engineering.

Harvey Group.

G.S Stothers

L-R: Kieran & Breige King, Kempston Controls.

L-R: Ryan Craig, Allison McFadden & Tom Hall, Continu.

Edmundson Electrical.

L-R: Emeka Onwuka & Eimear McCann, AJ Mac Electrical.

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L-R: Catherine Ferguson & Stewart Nelson, Head Judge NICEIC.

L-R: Frank Bertie & Stephen Melton, NAPIT (Head sponsor).

KEW Electrical.

L-R: Steve Smith, Catherine Woodside, Chris McClung & Shauna McClements, Scan Alarms.

L-R: Mark Rogers & Matthew Doran, Ansell Lighting.

PM Lighting.

L-R: Luke Robinson & Becky Retford with Heather & Ken Robinson, BM Electrical.

L-R: Tony Boyle & Duncan Orr, Aico.

MIDD Electrical.

L-R: Camila Molina, Patrick McElhone & John McLernon, NUGENT.

Fox Electrical Contracts.

Haughey Electrical.

AG Electrical.

PMK.

Dowds Group.

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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 25

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Stephen Melton, NAPIT (head sponsor), Brian Cunning and Adrian Logan.

WINNER: Lifetime Achievement Award BRIAN CUNNING, DOWDS GROUP KINDLY SPONSORED BY: NAPIT

Brian Cunning has played an integral role in shaping Dowds’ legacy across projects, people, culture and values. A director for the leading building and engineering contractor, Brian always puts his team first and has brought humility and integrity to the role. A natural mentor shaping the careers of countless colleagues, he is described as genuine, young at heart and quick witted. Brian’s impressive resume in the electrical industry dates back to 1978, when he started out as an electrical apprentice alongside his father and brother. He soon progressed into a foreman role and, by the mid- 1980s, had joined Cogan & Shackleton in Coleraine as a design engineer. Moving to JBE M&E in Ballymena in the late 1980s, he was promoted to contracts director in 1992 and worked across the education, healthcare, industrial, commercial, retail and fit-out sectors. Notable contracts included a project director role at the £91m Odyssey, Belfast’s largest-ever civil engineering project, which involved installation of over 30 miles of cable tray and the UK’s first use of the Honeywell integrated management system. Brian joined Dowds, then known as JF&H Dowds, in 2002

and was promoted to contracts director in 2004. He was instrumental in securing major healthcare, educational and industrial projects throughout Northern Ireland including a £20m upgrade programme across Ulster University’s four campuses. Brian played a key role in Dowds’ first large-scale commission in GB, at the Rosie Hospital in Cambridge, as well as a lucrative partnership with Finnebrogue Artisan spanning multiple cutting-edge sites in Downpatrick. A keen hiker, Brian marked Dowds’ 40th anniversary in 2018 by completing Everest Base Camp and, in 2022, he officially launched its Energy Solutions offering from the top of Mont Blanc. Most recently Brian was appointed to his current role as Group Director of Innovation and Strategic Initiatives in 2025. Leading with calm determination, technical expertise and vision which earns the respect and trust of everyone he works with, Brian is a worthy recipient of this award.

T: +44 (0)28 2766 2789 E: info@dowdsgroup.com www.dowdsgroup.com

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L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Terry Doyle, Warmth Shield (sponsor), David Patterson and Adrian Logan, host. WINNER: Unsung Hero Award DAVID PATTERSON, VAUGHAN ENGINEERING SERVICES LTD KINDLY SPONSORED BY:

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Ken Robinson, BM Electrical (sponsor), Stephen Woolsey, Zumtobel Group, and Adrian Logan, host. WINNER: Lighting Product of the Year ZUMTOBEL - TECTON II

KINDLY SPONSORED BY:

WARMTH SHIELD

BM ELECTRICAL

Integrity, mentorship and genuine care are qualities personified by David Patterson, who retired at the end of 2024 after 40 years with Vaughan Engineering. Serving as director of VESL NI overseeing its mechanical and electrical operations, he has played an integral role in the success of the business. David isn’t just an exceptional engineer or thoughtful manager, but someone who truly cares, according to his colleagues. He has always taken the time to listen and understand his co-workers with genuine consideration, before taking thoughtful action. His ability to balance fierce competition in the construction industry with being a supportive mentor and trusted friend is a rare and inspiring gift. Vaughan Engineering had the bittersweet privilege of saying goodbye to David at the end of last year as he stepped into retirement from the construction industry due to ill health. However, while his absence will be deeply felt, his legacy and impact will continue to inspire his colleagues every day. David has dealt with his illness the way he has always approached his business and is focusing on spending quality time with his wife Fiona. Vaughan Engineering extends its gratitude to David for everything he has done for the industry, business, team and each of his colleagues.

Aesthetically pleasing and competitively priced for a continuous row lighting system offering a life span up to 100,000 hours, judges were wowed by the TECTON II. Marking the next evolution of a product with over 20 years of heritage, and featuring a revolutionary design developed alongside Pininfarina, Zumtobel’s TECTON sets the standard for durability, efficiency and sustainability in retail, office, data centre and logistics facilities. Operating within a temperature range of -20 to 45°C, the system is suitable for industrial environments with its modular design engineered for disassembly, repair, recycling or remanufacturing. An environmental product declaration details its CO₂ balance and material composition. LED components of the trunking system are built for longevity at L95 while maintaining an almost constant light output throughout their lifespan, delivering sustained high performance while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. A simple snap-in and release mechanism makes maintenance and future adjustments easy. TECTON II is fully backward compatible, meaning future upgrades to newer technology can be implemented without having to dismantle the existing system. Its minimalist aesthetic seamlessly integrates into any architectural setting.

T: +44 (0)28 9083 7441 - E: belfast@vaughan-group.co.uk www.vaughan-group.co.uk

T: +44 (0)191 365 2222 - E: info.uk@.zumtobelgroup.com https://tecton.zumtobel.com/en

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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 27

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Stuart Nelson, head judge (standing in for sponsor AP Haslam), Gareth Howes, Solutions, and Adrian Logan, host. WINNER: Innovative Product of the Year SOLUTIONS - ONEPOLE PRO BASE MOUNT KINDLY SPONSORED BY:

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Stewart Nelson, judge (standing in for sponsor AP Haslam), Philip Cully and Matthew Christie, Velocity, and Adrian Logan, host. HIGHLY COMMENDED: Innovative Product of the Year VELOCITY PRO GEAR - CONNECT TRACKER KINDLY SPONSORED BY:

AP HASLAM

Solutions has introduced a game-changing EV infrastructure product to the Irish market. The ONEPOLE Pro Base Mount, developed by its exclusive partner ONEPOLE, has been named Innovative Product of the Year at the Northern Ireland Electrical Awards 2025. This award-winning solution redefines how EV chargers are deployed. Delivered flat-packed, up to 126 units fit on a single Euro pallet, cutting emissions and transport costs. Made from high-quality steel and recycled aluminium, it also supports sustainability goals. Installation is fast and simple - no digging or concrete are required, reducing setup time by up to 70%. It’s engineered for maximum stability, meets strict safety standards and performs in extreme conditions. Scalable and modular, it’s ideal for all environments from urban and suburban to rural, making it easier than ever to expand EV infrastructure with minimal disruption. As the exclusive distributor of ONEPOLE in Ireland, Solutions is proud to lead the charge in cleaner transport. John Curley, EV Manager at Solutions, said, “All the hard work has paid off - this award shows how far we’ve come in driving smart, sustainable change.”

A game-changing solution addressing the devastating impact of tool theft on tradespeople, Velocity Connect Tracker safeguards valuable tools and equipment. A compact, retrofit device capable of transforming any tool bag into a smart, trackable asset, the tracker integrates seamlessly with the Velocity Connect app to provide real-time location tracking, movement alerts and theft deterrence. Offering peace of mind and security to professionals in the electrical industry, key features of the innovation include GPS and Bluetooth tracking to ensure precise location monitoring with a user-friendly interface. Designed for durability, the device’s long battery life allows it to operate for extended periods without frequent recharging. Velocity Connect bags come with a standard three- year warranty, extendable to five years via the app at no extra cost, while the Connect Tracker is compatible with any tool bag, making it a flexible and accessible security solution. The Connect Tracker directly addresses the rise in tool theft, which has seen a significant increase in recent years. With an affordable and scalable solution, Velocity Pro Gear empowers tradespeople to protect their livelihoods. By combining cutting-edge technology with practical application, the Velocity Connect Tracker enhances security, reduces financial loss and provides tradespeople with the confidence to focus on their work.

T: +353 (0)1 453 8959 - E: info@solutions.ie www.solutions.ie

T: +44 (0)28 9122 8364 - E: info@velocity-progear.com www.velocityprogear.com

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L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Jake Keyworth, Edmundson Electrical (sponsor), Ewan Forsythe and Adrian Logan, host. WINNER:

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Jake Keyworth, Edmundson Electrical (sponsor), Matthew Culbert, Harvey Group, and Adrian Logan, host.

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Apprentice of the Year MATTHEW CULBERT, HARVEY GROUP

Apprentice of the Year EWAN FORSYTHE, NUGENT

KINDLY SPONSORED BY: EDMUNDSON ELECTRICAL

Ewan Forsythe is lauded as his tutor’s best apprentice to date at Belfast Met, and by his employer NUGENT for workmanship implying a decade of experience. A three-time SkillBuild finalist and role model student with an exemplary work ethic and technical skills, Ewan passed his AM2 qualification 18 months early. Consistently top of the class in exams and assessments, he led the SkillBuild 2024 NI qualifying round and has been named Apprentice of the Year by Belfast Met and NUGENT. Matthew Neeson, tutor at Belfast Met, said, “Ewan is the best apprentice I have seen come through Belfast Met for the seven years I have taught here. He is extremely hard-working and is a role model for the rest of the class. “He has completed all his workplace assessments only halfway through his third year, and both his assessor and I were blown away by the standard of work. Additionally, I have conducted three site visits to assess his progress and observed the high quality of his work.” At NUGENT, Ewan coaches young apprentices and works on multi-million-pound jobs with minimal supervision. Richard Gilmour, Director, said, “We see Ewan playing a vital role in the long-term growth of NUGENT. His ambition and drive will take him far.”

An invaluable asset in the classroom, and willing to go the extra mile in the workplace, highly commended apprentice Matthew Culbert brings great enthusiasm to his trade. Such is his commitment to training and development, Matthew has already completed a City & Guilds Level 3 qualification in periodic inspection and testing outside of his apprenticeship. As an electrical apprentice with Harvey Group, he has grasped every opportunity to expand his experience, working on installations across schools, office blocks, pharmaceutical warehouses and retail stores. Honing his skills in first fixing with steel and PVC conduit, metal cable tray, metal cable basket and bus bar systems, Matthew has also expanded his knowledge of second fixing across lighting, power and heating, fire alarm and extra-low voltage systems. Ben Ford, tutor at SERC Downpatrick, said, “Not only does he work hard for himself, but he also helps his classmates when they are struggling to understand something. This makes him an invaluable asset in the classroom and a pleasure to teach.” David Bennett, Contracts Manager at Harvey Group, said, “Matthew is an extremely capable and hard-working young man. He consistently goes the extra mile, ensuring the best results for both his colleagues and our clients.”

T: +44 (0)28 8775 8617 - E: info@nugent.com www.nugent.com

T: +44 (0)28 9034 2444 - E: enquiries@harveygroup.co.uk www.harveygroup.co.uk

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IRELAND’S ELECTRICAL MAGAZINE | 29

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Noel Harper, EJ Harper (sponsor), Jim Bruce and Robert Campbell, ROBUS, and Adrian Logan, host.

L-R: Claire McCollum, host, Noel Harper, EJ Harper (sponsor), Tony Boyle & Duncan Orr, Aico, and Adrian Logan, host.

WINNER: Manufacturer of the Year

HIGHLY COMMENDED: Manufacturer of the Year

AICO

ROBUS

KINDLY SPONSORED BY:

EJ HARPER

Judges were impressed with Aico’s commitment to developing innovative new products, such as HomeLINK smart technology and Ei3030 multi-sensor alarms, and high level of customer support. The Ask Aico Northern Ireland Roadshow toured 12 locations, connecting directly with hundreds of stakeholders to educate and demonstrate its products. An impressive package of support services includes 32 Relationships Managers, an expert in-house technical support team and free Fire Industry Association-accredited training scheme. The scheme, Expert Installer, provides electrical contractors with all the information required to select, site, install and maintain Aico alarms to the highest quality. In 2024 alone, Aico answered 72,500 calls and 900 live chats, creating and solving 726 cases. The manufacturer also trained 11,702 Expert Installers and hosted 732 people at its headquarters for City & Guilds training. Celebrating its 35th year in business in 2025, Aico’s latest innovations include HomeLINK, which leverages cutting-edge smart home integration and analytics technologies to improve property environment health. Introduced in 2020, HomeLINK was updated in 2024 with a HomeLINK Case Management system allowing users to create cases and track progress for individual properties.

Electrical contractor-led design and an unwavering commitment to quality have positioned ROBUS as a lighting company trusted by wholesalers and contractors worldwide. In the Northern Ireland market for around 40 years, the company’s sales managers for the region, Jim Bruce and Robert Campbell, work closely with dozens of wholesalers across the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors. Part of the LED Group and the largest Irish lighting manufacturer worldwide, ROBUS aims to be its customers’ most-trusted LED lighting brand. An extensive lighting range covers exterior and interior applications spanning LED strips, downlights, surface fittings, commercial, industrial, outdoor, track and projectors, kitchen and furniture, bathroom, emergency and lamps. ROBUS’ 100,000sqft head office in Dublin serves as a distribution hub, visitors’ centre and base for lighting design services. The manufacturer also operates multiple global offices employing a team of 200 across 40 countries. A Deloitte Best Managed Company winner for nine consecutive years, ROBUS supports internal progression with an Attract, Develop and Retain strategy and mentorship programme. Its sales team support customers with over 4,000 calls per month, a WhatsApp service and MyROBUS app offering features such as a quote builder and energy-savings calculator.

T: +44 (0)1691 664 100 - E: enquiries@aico.co.uk www.aico.co.uk

T: +44 (0)800 973 220 (NI)/+353 (0)1 709 9000 (RoI) E: info@robus.com - www.robus.com

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